Capt. John M. Chaney, Skipper of the charter boat Whistler, passed away Christmas morning after a very short illness. He was surrounded by his loving family who were everything to him. John was born in Hermosa Beach, CA. He entered the Navy at age 17 during WWII and fought in the Pacific. In 1945 while stationed in Seattle he met and married the love of his life Zora Shashich. In October #08 they celebrated their 63rd anniversary. After leaving the Navy John pursued a career in broadcasting, first in radio and later at KTNT TV. His second career was in sales at Ski Hut/Honda in Tacoma. There he met a seasoned charter boat owner/skipper who hooked him on salmon fishing in Westport which eventually led him to own and operate a couple of boats. One of his biggest accomplishments was building the 50 foot #WHISTLER# with his son Frank, arguing and bickering the whole time. Despite that, it was a beautiful boat and his pride and joy. His customers returned year after year and became his friends during his 20 years on the water. During retirement he enjoyed Toastmasters, Seniors on Stage, wrote memoirs during many writing classes and tutored many school children. He built his last house at the age of 77 and loved tending his tomatoes and squash but mainly enjoyed tormenting his wife Zo. He loved all animals and was known as the animal whisperer. His is survived by his loving wife Zo, son Frank (Sarah) of Hansville, his daughter Marleen of Ellensburg, granddaughters Saja and Brina (Ellensburg and Ballard) and his cat RB. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Erin. Services will be held in the spring and his ashes will be spread at Westport where he will join his granddaughter Erin. John Chaney 4-6-25 ~ 12-25-08 Pub Date: 1/1/2009 Tacoma News Tribune